Two Danish companies are exploring the integration of offshore wind with marine electrification to reduce vessel-related greenhouse gas emissions. Stillstrom, a leader in marine technology, aims to provide offshore power and charging solutions for battery powered vessels. A joint white paper with the Port of Roenne on the Danish island of Bornholm will explore how offshore wind can support charging solutions for electric ferries and cargo vessels. Bornholm, designated as an energy island, is central to one of the busiest shipping corridors in Europe and plans to build offshore wind farms to support maritime electrification. The concept of "energy islands" as hubs for offshore power transmission is discussed, with estimates of 17 terawatt-hours of electricity needed for battery-powered vessels. This transition could save €2 billion in oil imports and reduce marine gas oil emissions. The Port of Roenne sees itself as well-positioned to contribute to the infrastructure needed for maritime electrification, including ferry and cruise vessel charging. Energy Island Bornholm is seen as a valuable opportunity to understand future maritime energy needs and support the wider transition to clean energy in Europe's shipping corridors.
Author: Reneweconomy.com
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Memo to LNP: AEMC says slowing renewables, sweating coal, a recipe for 20 pct power price hike
The latest report from the Australia Energy Market Commission (AEMC) shows that electricity prices are set to fall by 5% over the next five years due to the increase in renewable energy resources, but delays in wind generation and transmission projects could lead to a 20% increase in household electricity prices after 2030. The AEMC warns against prolonging the life of coal-fired power stations, as it could add up to 5% to prices. Transitioning to wind energy can lower costs and reduce reliance on expensive gas generation, with the potential to reduce electricity prices by 10% by 2035. The AEMC recommends better coordination of consumer energy resources, doubling rooftop solar by 2035, and a nationally consistent regulatory framework for renewable energy to lower costs and reduce network investment.
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Australian solar innovator 5B wins biggest order yet to help power Kalgoorlie’s giant “super pit” gold mine
Australian solar innovator 5B has secured its largest order yet to supply solar components for a major renewable energy and battery project in Western Australia's Goldfields region, led by Northern Star Resources. The project will combine wind, solar, and battery storage to power mining operations, with 5B's prefabricated Maverick PV units reducing installation time and costs. The company received funding from the Solar Sunshot program to scale up production and lower costs, making the project a blueprint for modern, cost-effective, and clean mining energy systems. Northern Star's Kalgoorlie Consolidated Gold Mines (KCGM) operations will be powered by a hybrid renewables project, with solar accounting for 70% of electricity demand, and a vanadium flow battery proposed to address the grid's vulnerability. Zenith Energy will build, own, and operate the project under a 25-year power purchase agreement, with AVESS Energy showing interest in delivering the battery system.
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Solar and wind reach 100% of demand in biggest isolated grid
Solar and wind energy sources have successfully met 100% of the energy demand in the largest isolated grid, showcasing the potential of renewable energy in meeting electricity needs. This achievement demonstrates the feasibility and reliability of transitioning to clean energy sources to combat climate change. The milestone underscores the importance of investing in and expanding renewable energy infrastructure to achieve a sustainable and carbon-neutral future.
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First of 800 new towers erected for Australia’s most expensive transmission project to date
Construction has commenced on the $4.9 billion HumeLink transmission line in New South Wales, Australia's most expensive transmission project, connecting the Snowy 2.0 pumped hydro scheme and enabling the utilization of wind and solar capacity in the region. Upon completion, HumeLink will contribute an extra 2,200 MW of on-demand energy to the grid, delivering over $1 billion in net benefits to Australian households and businesses. The project is set to create up to 1,600 construction jobs and support local economies, showcasing a significant step towards sustainable energy solutions in the fight against climate change.
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Solar and wind reach 100 pct of demand in biggest isolated grid, as batteries allow it to keep its thermals on
Western Australia's isolated grid achieved 100% of demand with solar and wind energy, supported by growing battery storage. The state's high levels of rooftop solar and variable renewables are driving the green energy transition, with coal generators expected to retire by the end of the decade. South Australia is also making progress towards 100% renewables, aiming for "net" renewables by 2027. As the grid transitions, alternative solutions like synchronous condensers and grid forming inverters are being considered to ensure stability. The ultimate goal is to achieve 100% renewables without the need for traditional generators, emphasizing the importance of preparing for a coal-free grid by 2031.
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South Australia averages 100 pct wind and solar over week, 90 pct over last 28 days
South Australia has achieved over 100% net renewables in the past week and over 90% renewables in the last 28 days, with a mix of wind and solar power. The state aims to reach an average of 100% "net" renewables by 2027, aided by new transmission links and a growing number of big batteries. The completion of a new link from NSW and the use of battery grid forming inverters will allow the grid to run without gas generators, ensuring 100% renewables at times. The state's renewable energy capacity is set to increase with the operation of the Goyder wind farm.
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Construction kicks off on major upgrade of transmission links to host renewables and clear path for coal exit
Construction has begun on the Clean Energy Link – North project in Perth's northern suburbs, the largest investment in Western Australia's electricity transmission infrastructure in over a decade. The project includes major upgrades to the northern section of the South West Interconnected System (SWIS) to facilitate the addition of renewable energy resources, doubling capacity in some sections and enabling the flow of wind and solar energy. This project is part of the state government's plan to exit State-owned coal by 2030 and make Western Australia a renewable energy powerhouse. The North project is set to be completed by the end of 2027, creating over 400 jobs and contributing to the state's transition towards clean energy solutions.
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Australia’s most advanced renewable grid is its most secure, but NSW must scramble as it nears “no coal” scenario
South Australia is leading the way in renewable energy with a 75% share of wind and solar, making it the most secure state grid in Australia. The state has successfully transitioned away from coal-fired power stations and has implemented innovative solutions such as the Tesla big battery and synchronous condensers. South Australia is on track to reach 100% net renewables and will be able to run its grid without gas plants. However, other states like NSW and Victoria are facing challenges with the closure of aging coal-fired generators and are scrambling to secure replacement capacity for critical grid services. AEMO warns of potential risks and the need for further action to ensure system stability in the future. The closure of coal-fired power plants in Australia, such as the one in NSW, is expected to lead to a "credible no coal scenario" by 2031/32. Similar closures are planned in Victoria and Queensland in the coming years. The transition to a high renewable grid is essential for Australia to meet its 2030 and 2035 climate targets. AEMO warns that new investments and reforms are needed to maintain system security during this transition, including utilizing renewable energy sources like rooftop solar. Industry and governments are working together to manage the transition points and ensure system security.
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Big batteries overtake big solar in the world’s largest isolated grid
In Western Australia, the latest utility scale battery additions have boosted total capacity to 1,385 MW and 5,367 MWh, surpassing daily utility scale solar contribution. Battery penetration on the WEM often exceeds 20% of evening peak dispatch, targeting periods of low rooftop solar energy generation and coinciding with peak demand. Renewable energy consistently exceeds a minimum of 20% penetration on W.A.'s WEM, highlighting the need for more wind power to meet night-time demand.
https://reneweconomy.com.au/big-batteries-overtake-big-solar-in-the-worlds-largest-isolated-grid/